The Most Cost-Effective Way to Build a Squad in eFootball

Many Dream Team managers in eFootball struggle with one common issue: how to build a competitive squad without wasting valuable coins and GP. Since coins are often limited and GP requires grinding, being cost-effective is essential to maximize your team’s potential while staying competitive in online divisions.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most cost-effective way to build a squad in eFootball, covering smart signings, training strategies, formation choices, and money-saving tips.

Table of Contents

Why Cost-Effective Squad Building Matters

Limited Resources: Unless you spend real money, coins and GP are scarce.
Meta Shifts: The game’s meta changes, making certain players more or less valuable.
Long-Term Planning: A well-built squad lasts longer and requires fewer changes.
Competitive Balance: Smart managers can defeat “pay-to-win” squads with the right strategy.

Step 1: Identify Your Playstyle

Before spending coins or GP, decide how you want your team to play:

Quick Counter: Fast wingers and clinical finishers.
Possession: Technical midfielders with high passing stats.
Long Ball: Strong target men with aerial dominance.
Defensive First: Reliable defenders and a solid DMF.

Choosing a playstyle early prevents wasteful signings and ensures every player fits the system.

Step 2: Focus on Core Positions First

Building cost-effectively means prioritizing positions that have the most impact.

Goalkeeper (GK): A reliable GK saves countless matches. Cheap but effective options exist.
Center-Backs (CBs): Prioritize defenders with height, strength, and defensive awareness.
Defensive Midfielder (DMF): The engine of the team, breaking up play and recycling possession.
Striker (CF): At least one reliable finisher to convert chances.

Once these four positions are strong, fill in wingers, fullbacks, and attacking midfielders.

Step 3: Use GP Instead of Coins Whenever Possible

GP players may lack flashy names, but many are highly usable.
Focus on rising stars who can be trained effectively.
Avoid wasting coins on random draws—save them for Epic or Legendary players who define squads.

Step 4: Train Players Smartly

Special progression points: Prioritize stamina, defensive awareness, or finishing depending on role.
Balance attributes: Don’t over-invest in speed if it sacrifices ball control or strength.
Maximize role efficiency: Train players to perfectly fit their tactical role instead of chasing “all-rounders.”

Step 5: Build a Balanced Formation

Some formations require more expensive players to succeed, while others allow budget squads to shine.

4-2-3-1: Cost-effective and balanced. Works with mid-tier players.
4-4-2 Flat: Easy to use with budget midfielders and defenders.
3-5-2: Provides strength in midfield and defense with fewer expensive wingers.

Step 6: Rotate and Manage Stamina

Rotate squad players to avoid fatigue.
Keep budget backups in every position.
Don’t spend on expensive substitutes unless necessary—GP players can fill bench roles.

Step 7: Smart Use of Coins

Save coins for Epic players. They provide long-term value.
Avoid impulsive packs. Only spend when a player fits your tactics.
Check campaign rewards. Sometimes free players can save you from unnecessary signings.

Cost-Effective Players to Target

Here are examples of affordable but effective players in eFootball (may vary by version):

GK: Unai Simón, Emiliano Martínez.
CBs: Pau Torres, Rüdiger.
DMF: Declan Rice, Rodri.
CM/AMF: Barella, Kessié.
Wingers: Chiesa, Rashford (GP version).
Striker: Morata, Vlahović.

These players combine strong stats with affordability, giving you a solid base.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Chasing Meta Players Too Early: You’ll waste coins and GP.
Overloading on Attackers: Neglecting defense costs matches.
Ignoring Manager Tactics: Your manager’s style should guide signings.
Spreading GP Thin: Better to max one or two stars than have 10 half-trained players.

Advanced Tips for Pro Managers

Hybrid Teams: Mix one or two Epic stars with budget GP players.
Campaign Exploits: Maximize rewards from daily and event matches.
Seasonal Planning: Save coins for seasonal campaigns where Epic players are released.
Resilience Over Flash: Choose consistency over flashy dribblers who drain stamina.

Conclusion

The most cost-effective way to build a squad in eFootball is all about discipline and planning. By defining your playstyle, focusing on core positions, training smartly, and using GP players wisely, you can create a team capable of competing with even the most expensive squads.

Coins should be saved for true game-changers like Epic players, while GP and free rewards fill the rest of the lineup. With patience and strategy, your Dream Team can thrive without draining resources.